Ever wonder how a single structure can transform from a summer cycling haven to a winter ice wonderland? That’s the Rad- & Eisbahn Stellingen for you. This unique sports venue in Hamburg offers thrills year-round.
The Rad- & Eisbahn Stellingen isn’t just another sports facility. It’s a testament to Hamburg’s commitment to active living. Built in 1961, the Radrennbahn Stellingen was initially an open-air cycling track. Then, in 1995, it underwent a significant transformation. A massive tent roof, the largest in Europe at that time, was added. It spans 7,000 square meters. A new synthetic resin surface was also installed.
This Radrennbahn Stellingen is a 250-meter oval. It features six-meter width and a 38-degree curve banking. It is North Germany’s only covered cycling track. This ensures races and training can continue regardless of the weather. The German Track Cycling Championships were held here in 2000 and 2005.
Interestingly, the Rad- & Eisbahn Stellingen is nestled within a community garden. It is close to other sports facilities like the Sportwerk Hamburg squash courts. You’ll also find the Sportpark Eimsbüttel with its football fields, and the Grün-Weiss Eimsbüttel tennis courts nearby.
Owned by the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, the Radrennbahn Stellingen is a versatile space. In summer, it’s home to the WET Hamburg Hawks inline skater hockey team. They compete in the Regionalliga Nord and Landesliga Hamburg. When winter arrives, the transformation is complete. The track becomes an ice rink. The HSV Young Freezers, a top junior ice hockey team, play their home games here.
The Rad- & Eisbahn Stellingen nearly underwent further enhancements. During Hamburg’s bid for the 2024 Olympic Games, there were plans to renovate the aging facility. The goal was to make it Olympic-ready. Another option considered was building a temporary 5,000-seat arena.
In fact, this sports complex, including the Rad- & Eisbahn Stellingen, is quite large. The entire Hagenbeckstraße sports area covers 100,000 square meters. It caters to about 10 sports clubs. The city recognized its importance and invested in improvements.
Did you know that the Rad- & Eisbahn Stellingen’s roof has required ongoing maintenance? In 2015, inspecting, cleaning, and repairing the membrane roof cost nearly 100,000 euros. Another 100,000 euros were spent in 2016 for renovations. The city has allocated between 2.5 and 3.5 million euros for future renovations. Replacing the entire tent roof membrane is one option.
More than 50,000 visitors enjoy the ice rink during its season. The Rad- & Eisbahn Stellingen is more than just a sports venue. It is a community hub where sports enthusiasts gather. Whether it’s the thrill of cycling or the joy of ice skating, the Rad- & Eisbahn Stellingen offers something for everyone. It stands as a symbol of Hamburg’s dedication to sports. So next time you’re looking for an active adventure, remember the Rad- & Eisbahn Stellingen, where the seasons dictate the sport, but the fun never stops.